The International Union of Judicial Officers (UIHJ), represented by Robert Cicuto, Treasurer of the European Union of Judicial Officers (UEHJ), participated in the 68th Annual Meeting of the International Association of Judges (IAJ), held in Lisbon, Portugal, from 15 to 21 October 2026.
Bringing together representatives of judicial associations from approximately 90 countries, this international gathering addressed a fundamental question: how can judicial independence and the rule of law be safeguarded in a world facing increasing political and institutional pressures?
Judicial independence as a cornerstone of democracy
During the opening ceremony, Carlos Moedas, Mayor of Lisbon, and José Pedro Aguiar-Branco, President of the Portuguese Parliament, emphasised that judicial independence is an essential safeguard for citizens, rather than a privilege granted to judges.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of public confidence in judicial institutions, transparency and meaningful dialogue between the judiciary and society.
One particularly significant moment was the international conference dedicated to the role of national and international judicial associations in protecting the rule of law and fundamental rights, featuring an intervention by Margaret Satterthwaite, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers.
The exchanges highlighted the growing pressures, intimidation and reprisals faced by judges and leaders of professional judicial associations. Situations discussed in relation to Guatemala, Türkiye and Peru illustrated the crucial importance of strong and lasting international solidarity.
A shared responsibility across the judicial professions
For the UIHJ, these discussions are particularly relevant to the role and responsibilities of judicial officers worldwide.
The rule of law depends not only on the independence of those who deliver judicial decisions, but also on the existence of independent, impartial and accountable professionals capable of ensuring their effective enforcement.
Judges and judicial officers therefore contribute, each within their respective responsibilities, to the same fundamental mission: guaranteeing citizens access to credible, effective and trustworthy justice.
The UIHJ’s participation in this international gathering reflects its continued commitment to dialogue between judicial professions and to strengthening international cooperation.
Defending judicial independence also means ensuring that judicial decisions are effectively enforced. Without enforcement, justice remains a promise; through enforcement, it becomes a reality for citizens.
